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The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of progressive muscle relaxation on affective well-being (anxiety and mood), cognitive variables (sustained attention and reaction time), and aggressive behavior in female athletes during menstruation. Forty-five athletes age 18–22 years were randomly assigned to three groups: an experimental group (n = 15) undergoing eight sessions of 30-min progressive muscle relaxation, a breathing group (n = 15) engaging in eight sessions of 30-min deep breathing, and a control group (n = 15) receiving no intervention. The participants were evaluated during menstruation, at baseline, and after the intervention. Results showed significant improvements in mood ( η P 2 =.27) and anxiety ( η P 2 =.2) in the experimental group compared with the breathing group and the control group. No significant effects were found for aggressive behavior and cognitive variables. Progressive muscle-relaxation training is beneficial for improving mood and reducing anxiety in sportswomen during menstruation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigates the hard part turning of DC53 tool steel, which is engineered for better mechanical properties compared to AISI D2 tool steel, using Xcel cubic boron nitride. The machining input parameters such as workpiece hardness (different heat treatments), cutting speed, feed rate, and depth of cut are used to thoroughly evaluate process science across conflicting machinability attributes such as cutting tool life, machined workpiece surface roughness, volume of material removed, machine tool power consumption, and tool-workpiece zone temperature. A full factorial design of experiments with two levels, resulting in 16 experiments, is performed with statistical parametric significance analysis to better control process variability. Multiple artificial neural network (ANN) architectures are generated to accurately model the non-linearity of the process for better prediction of key characteristics. The optimized architectures are used as prediction models to a non-sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA-II) to determine the optimal compromise among all conflicting responses. The significance analysis highlighted that heat treatment is the most influential variable on machinability, with a significance of 74.63% on tool life, 59.03% on roughness, 66.45% on material removed, 38.03% on power consumption, and 29.60% on interaction-zone temperature. The confidence of all ANN architectures is achieved above 0.97 R2 to accurately incorporate parametric relations with physical mechanisms. The compromise against conflicting machinability attributes identified by NSGA-II optimization results in a 92.05% increase in tool life, a 91.83% increase in volume removed, a 33.33% decrease in roughness, a 26.73% decline in power consumption, and a 9.61% reduction in machining temperature. The process variability is thoroughly analyzed using statistical and physical analyses and computational intelligence, which will guide machinists in better decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hardened AISI D2 and DC53 tool steel has widespread applications in the tool and die-making industry. Conventional machining of D series tool steels is challenging due to the presence of hard and abrasive metallic carbides, which limit the cutting tool's life. Therefore, wire electric discharge machining (WEDM) is a precision material removal process widely used for incorporating intricate details on hardened steels through material removal. Thus, this study evaluates the effect of machining parameters like peak current (IP), servo voltage (V), pulse (P), and material type (MT) in terms of surface roughness (Ra) on complex profiles such as flat and curved. An analysis of variance has also been carried out to investigate the significant input parameters for the WEDM. To find the optimal parametric settings, multi-response optimization with composite desirability (dG) has been performed. Among the two types of materials, D2 steel has performed exceptionally well in terms of Ra for both flat and curved surfaces. The confirmatory experimental results revealed improvement in flat and curved profile roughness by 66.03% and 60.09%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was aimed to ameliorate the issue of solubility and thereby, bioavailability of ketoprofen, a BCS Class II drug. The sustained release matrix tablets (MT) were prepared using surfactant-assisted wet granulation (SAWG) with 1–5% of different surfactants. The tablet characteristics were within the compendial limits. The selected sustained release-compliant matrix tablet formulation containing granules prepared using 3% Soluplus® (MT2) released the drug by swelling-erosion. In human volunteers, MT2 attained the maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) of 5.72µg /ml ± 0.30 h, time to Cmax (Tmax) of 5.56 ± 0.30 h and maintained the plasma concentration above its minimum effective concentration (MEC), 0.7 µg.ml−1 till 24h. A control formulation, prepared from granules without surfactant (MT16), promptly attained Cmax of 9.62 ± 0.76 µg/ml within 1h but rapidly declined to below MEC in 8h. Area under the curve from initial point to infinity (AUC0-∞) of MT2 (78.65 ± 7.64 µg.h.ml−1) was 2.29 folds higher than 34.39 ± 3.06 µg.h.ml−1 of MT16. With decreased Cmax, increased AUC0-∞, delayed Tmax and retained ketoprofen concentration above MEC for longer time, MT2 corresponded with the in-vitro sustained drug release characteristic. There is a likelihood of administration of once-a-day single dose of MT2 without plasma fluctuations, expected from two doses of MT16. SAWG helped developing a swellable-erodible sustained release matrix tablet formulation of ketoprofen with the desired biopharmaceutical and pharmacokinetics properties, merely by addition of Soluplus® in granules and without incorporation of any special ingredients or the major manipulation of the formulative ingredients in the formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Variational Integrator (VI) is a numerical technique, in which the Lagrangian of the system is used as the action integral. It is a special type of numerical solution that preserves the energy and momentum of the system. In this paper, we retrieve numerical solutions for heat and wave equation with the help of all possible combinations of finite difference scheme like forward–forward, forward–backward, forward–centered, backward–forward, backward–backward, backward–centered, centered–forward, centered–backward, centered–centered. We also use Lagrangian approach along with the projection technique to obtain approximate solutions of these linear models. This approach provides the best approximate solutions as well as preserves the energy of the system while the finite difference scheme gives only the numerical solutions. We also draw a comparison of existing exact solution with all approximate solutions for both models and provide graphical representation of these solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of Review: This narrative review aims to synthesize global literature on the relationship between cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and components of built environment (green spaces, walkability, food environment, accessibility and availability of recreational and healthcare facilities, and effects of air and noise pollution). Recent Findings: Increased green space and neighborhood walkability are associated with lower CVD mortality and morbidity; however, benefits have shown differential effects by socioeconomic status (SES). Air pollution is a leading environmental risk factor contributing to CVDs, and it disproportionately impacts low SES populations and women. Findings on relationships between food environment and CVDs are inconsistent and limited. Summary: This global review reports on the multifactorial and complex relationship between built environment and higher CVD risk and poor CVD outcomes. Future research can address an unmet need to understand this relationship with further depth and breadth, and to investigate resulting health disparities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Retinal imaging, used for assessing stroke-related retinal changes, is a non-invasive and cost-effective method that can be enhanced by machine learning and deep learning algorithms, showing promise in early disease detection, severity grading, and prognostic evaluation in stroke patients. This review explores the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in stroke patient care, focusing on retinal imaging integration into clinical workflows. Retinal imaging has revealed several microvascular changes, including a decrease in the central retinal artery diameter and an increase in the central retinal vein diameter, both of which are associated with lacunar stroke and intracranial hemorrhage. Additionally, microvascular changes, such as arteriovenous nicking, increased vessel tortuosity, enhanced arteriolar light reflex, decreased retinal fractals, and thinning of retinal nerve fiber layer are also reported to be associated with higher stroke risk. AI models, such as Xception and EfficientNet, have demonstrated accuracy comparable to traditional stroke risk scoring systems in predicting stroke risk. For stroke diagnosis, models like Inception, ResNet, and VGG, alongside machine learning classifiers, have shown high efficacy in distinguishing stroke patients from healthy individuals using retinal imaging. Moreover, a random forest model effectively distinguished between ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke subtypes based on retinal features, showing superior predictive performance compared to traditional clinical characteristics. Additionally, a support vector machine model has achieved high classification accuracy in assessing pial collateral status. Despite this advancements, challenges such as the lack of standardized protocols for imaging modalities, hesitance in trusting AI-generated predictions, insufficient integration of retinal imaging data with electronic health records, the need for validation across diverse populations, and ethical and regulatory concerns persist. Future efforts must focus on validating AI models across diverse populations, ensuring algorithm transparency, and addressing ethical and regulatory issues to enable broader implementation. Overcoming these barriers will be essential for translating this technology into personalized stroke care and improving patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aim: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a major contributor to sexually transmitted infections, especially common in sexually active populations. Although the majority of HPV infections resolve naturally, certain cases can develop into different types of cancer. This study focused on evaluating the prevalence and distribution of HPV genotypes across males and females of different age groups who visited a laboratory in Urmia, Iran. Materials and methods: Samples from the genital area were obtained from participants in the study. DNA extraction was performed using the Favorgen extraction kit (Favorgen, Taiwan), followed by genotyping through Real-Time PCR. Genotypes were determined using the MehrViru HPV genotyping kit (MehrViru, Iran). Additionally, demographic details, including age, were analyzed in conjunction with the statistical virological data. Results: Between 2022 and 2023, a total of 447 individuals, including both referred and routine visitors, attended the laboratory, comprising 431 females and 16 males. Of these, 195 tested positive for HPV, resulting in an overall prevalence rate of 43.6%. Among the positive cases, 90 individuals (46.2%) were infected with a single HPV genotype, while 105 cases (53.8%) had multiple genotype infections. The most common genotypes identified were HPV-6 (41.0%), HPV-16 (15.4%), HPV-56 (10.8%), and HPV-90 (10.8%). The least genotype identified was HPV-43, which was detected in 5 cases (2.6%). Additionally, our analysis revealed that women under 30 who tested positive were predominantly infected with the LR genotype, a pattern also seen in the four men in the same age group, all of whom were infected with the LR genotype. Conclusion: Our findings underscore the significant presence of HPV among both females and males visiting the laboratory in Urmia, particularly in individuals under 30 years old. The identification of HPV-6 and HPV-16 as the most prevalent genotypes highlights the importance of age-specific intervention strategies. Although vaccination programs cover HPV-6 and HPV-16, HPV-56 is not included, which underscores the need for comprehensive screening and preventive measures to address the potential long-term impacts of HPV-related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Snake venom has long-term physiological effects on survivor's life. An electrochemical immunosensor based on samarium-cobalt-doped antimony tungstate (Sb2WO4@Sm-Co) is developed via a solvothermal method to detect snake venom antigens (SVA). The fabricated nanospheres are functionalized with carboxyl groups to enhance the linkage of the 3-mercaptopropionic acid linker (3-MPA). This modification increases the conjugation of antivenom polyvalent antibody with the nanomaterial on a glassy carbon electrode (Sb2WO4@Sm-Co-COOH-MPA-Ab/GCE). The modified nanospheres are characterized by UV–VIS spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The electrochemical performance of formulated immunosensor for antigen sensing is tested by cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), and chronoamperometry. This developed immunosensor has a wide linear range of 5–30 ng/mL with LODs of 0.08 ng/mL and 0.1 ng/mL from DPV and LSV, respectively. The amperometric immunosensor increases the tested antibody's loading capacity and accelerates the electron transfer rate. The analytical parameters reveal that this immunosensor is ultrasensitive, stable, reproducible, and selective for measuring SVA and can have potential applications in diagnostic clinics. Key points: • The hierarchical Sb2WO4@Sm-Co-COOH NPs were synthesized through a one-step solvothermal method • Monitoring the effect of doping Sm and Co on the characteristics of Sb2WO4 • MPA-linked IgG antibodys-based immunosensor was synthesized with good dispersity and high surface functional groups for capturing SVAs [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We hypothesize that epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) structure differs between patients with coronary disease and healthy individuals and that EAT may undergo changes during an acute coronary syndrome (ACS). This study aimed to investigate EAT thickness (EATt) and structure using ultrasound radiomics in patients with ACS, patients with chronic coronary syndrome (CCS), and controls and compare the findings between the three groups. This prospective monocentric comparative cohort study included three patient groups: ACS, CCS, and asymptomatic controls. EATt was assessed using transthoracic echocardiography. Geometrical features (as mean gray value and raw integrated density) and texture features (as angular second moment, contrast and correlation) were computed from grayscale Tagged Image File Format biplane images using ImageJ software. EATt did not significantly differ between the ACS group (8.14 ± 3.17 mm) and the control group (6.92 ± 2.50 mm), whereas CCS patients (9.96 ± 3.19 mm) had significantly thicker EAT compared to both the ACS group (p = 0.025) and the control group (p < 0.001). Radiomics analysis revealed differences in geometrical parameters with discriminatory capabilities between both ACS group and controls and CCS group and controls. A multivariate analysis comparing ACS and CCS patients revealed that differences in EAT characteristics were significant only in patients with a body mass index below 26.25 kg/m². In this subgroup, patients older than 68 exhibited a higher modal gray value (p = 0.016), whereas those younger than 68 had a lower minimum gray value (p = 0.05). Radiomic analysis highlights its potential in developing imaging biomarkers for early diagnosis and coronary artery disease progression monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Housing provision is an integrated network of stakeholders, resources, institutions, and regulations. This study explores the stakeholder analysis approach through grounded theory to rationalize the stakeholder influence and role in developing collaborative frameworks for the sustainable provision of low-income housing in Pakistan. This study aims to theorize the Institutional Stakeholder Collaborations (ISCs) conceptual framework derived from institutional, stakeholder, collaboration, and resource dependence theories. The research also presents an interesting feature, i.e. stakeholder-resource cross-tabulation in achieving the research objective to develop the ISCs theory by placing core categories against stakeholder categories and resource domains. Stakeholder mapping plotted the influence against attributes of power, legitimacy, and interest (PLI) within the context of low-income housing in Punjab, Pakistan. The new theory was generated from the grounded data as a collaborative model for the sustainable provision of low-income housing, i.e., the Malik ISCs Model. This informed discovery of collaboration through the Malik ISCs Model for effectively providing low-income housing projects suggests some key points for the broader global policy discourse of housing development, emphasizing the low-income segment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) is a rare and aggressive thyroid neoplasm. This study is the largest to date and aims to provide the most up-to-date analysis of demographics and clinicopathological factors of ATC. Methods: Data for this study were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Results: A total of 1,769 cases of ATC were included with a median age at diagnosis was 71 years, and 59% were females. The most common site of metastasis was the lung (40.7%). The majority of patients underwent combination therapy (surgery with adjuvant chemoradiation) (19.2%). The 5-year OS was 7.3% (95% C.I. 6.6–8.0). The 5-year CSS was 11.8% (95% C.I. 10.8–12.8). The highest 5-year survival was observed with combination therapy (surgery with adjuvant chemoradiation) at 20.9%. Multivariable analysis revealed that age >60 years, Asian/Pacific Islander, >2 cm tumor size, and metastatic disease were independent risk factors. Conclusions: ATC is an uncommon tumor that mainly affects Caucasian females in their 70s. Older age, Asian/Pacific Islander race, and larger tumor size (>2 cm) were also associated with a worse prognosis. For better comprehension of pathogenesis, prospective clinical trials should include patients from all ethnicities, gender, and genomic analysis of ATC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An interview with Sabba Khan and Deena Mohamed, is presented, exploring their artistic expressions through graphic novels that highlight the complexities of Muslim experiences. Topics include the intersection of personal and socio-political storytelling in graphic literature, the role of community and solidarity among artists of color, and the critique of societal norms represented in their works.

Urbanization and industrialization are exponentially deteriorating air quality, ecosystems, and human health. Phytoremediation is cost cost-effective, sustainable, and nature-based solution against air pollution. This study is designed to evaluate four species, Chlorophytum comosum, Rhapis excelsa, Spathiphyllum wallisii, and Ficus benjamina for their phytoremediation potential. The experimental setup consisted of a sealed chamber to place potted plants and equipment, it was also connected to the vehicular exhaust pipe. The Air Pollution Tolerance Index was highest for F. benjamina (12.19) and lowest for Rhapis excels (8.58). C. comosum has the highest VOC removal efficiency (90%, 0.172 ppm h−1). NOx remediation was highest by F. benjamina with 0.057 ppm h−1 (77%) removal efficiency. SOx and CO were remediated more efficiently by C. comosum, as 89%, (0.18 ppm h−1) and 80% (0.23 ppm h−1), respectively. R. excelsa reduced a higher concentration of NH3 (77%, 0.06 ppm h−1) compared to other species. R. excelsa and S. wallisii may serve as bio-indicator species. These findings provide a sustainable, natural, economical, and eco-friendly way to mitigate air pollution. F. benjamina and C. comosum are suitable species for urban landscapes, green spaces, urban plantations, and green walls to curb air pollutants due to traffic and industries. NOVELTY STATEMENT: Based on the air pollution tolerance index, this study concludes that Rhapis excels (APTI = 8.58) can be used as a bio-indicator species for pollution monitoring and evaluation. Whereas, Ficus benjamina (APTI = 12.2) and Chlorophytum comosum (APTI = 10.3) are the best options for urban landscapes, green belts, or green walls for air pollution combat and mitigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study is an economic evaluation of total knee replacement (TKR) in comparison with non-surgical management in India. Methods: Cost-utility analysis and budget impact analysis (BIA) were conducted on individuals aged ≥ 50 years with osteoarthritis of the knee (OA knee) Kellgren-Lawrence grades 2 and 3 using a provider's perspective. Three scenarios were considered, varying the age at which TKR is administered while assuming a 20-year lifespan for the implant. A Markov model was used to determine incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs). Sensitivity analysis was conducted incorporating implant costs and other input parameters. Results: Net quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) gained per OA knee treated with TKR were superior when performed at the age of 50, regardless of OA severity and across all scenarios. The lowest ICER was 36,107 Indian National Rupees (INR) (USD 482.9)/QALY gained, observed at 50 years, while the highest was INR 61,363 (USD 820.72)/QALY gained at 70 years for grade-2 severity. Sensitivity analysis revealed that the ICER was most sensitive to the cost of non-surgical management, health utility values gained in an improved state, and the cost of TKR across scenarios. For the BIA in Scenario 1, with 40% coverage for TKR, costs reach INR 5013 crores (cr) (USD 670,477,060) in 2023 and INR 8444 cr (USD 1,024,628,736) in 2028 (1% of government budgets). In Scenario 2 (full coverage), costs are INR 12,532 cr (USD 1,520,683,008) (2.7%) in 2023, declining to 2.4% in 2028. In Scenario 3, covering 40% under the National Health Mission (NHM), costs vary from 17% in 2023 to 25% in 2028. Conclusion: This study concludes that TKR is a cost-effective treatment option compared with non-surgical management for OA knee in India, irrespective of age, implant types, and severity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water resources contamination is damaging human health in most of the industrial cities in Pakistan. The present study was planned to assess the risk zone in District Kasur. Drinking water quality in rural and urban areas of four tehsils of Kasur was found to be poor for human health when analyzed for physicochemical parameters and microbial load (E. coli, Klebsiella and Shigella species), in comparison to World Health Organization (WHO) permissible limits. Extreme ranges in water quality parameters were observed, with biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) levels between 1.6 ppm to 3 ppm exceeding WHO limits, the highest chloride ion content was in Tehsil Chunian, total dissolved solids (TDS) reaching 2520 ppm, and pH values ranging from 7.5 to 8.9. E. coli and Shigella were observed in water samples but no Klebsiella species were observed. The study area's drinking water quality is poor, with high physicochemical parameters and pathogens like E. coli and Shigella, posing a direct risk to human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The boundary layer flow of immiscible fluids plays a crucial role across various industries, influencing advancements in industrial processes, environmental systems, healthcare and more. This study explores the thermally radiative boundary layer flow of a shear-driven Ree–Eyring fluid over a nanofluid. The investigation offers valuable insights into the intricate dynamics and heat transfer behavior that arise when a nanofluid, affected by thermal radiation, interacts with a non-Newtonian Ree–Eyring fluid. This analysis contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex interactions governing such systems, which is essential for enhancing efficiency and innovation in multiple applications. Design/methodology/approach: The simulation investigates the convergence of boundary layers under varying shear strengths. A comparative analysis is conducted using γAl2O3 and Al2O3 nanoparticles, with water as the base fluid. The model's numerical outcomes are derived using the bvp4c method through the application of appropriate similarity transformations. The resulting numerical data are then used to produce graphical representations, offering valuable insights into the influence of key parameters on flow behavior and patterns. Findings: The temperature of the Al2O3 nanoparticles is always higher than the γAl2O3 nanoparticles, and hence, Al2O3 nanoparticles become more significant in the cooling process then γAl2O3 nanoparticles. It is also observed that the fluid velocity for both regions is enhanced by increasing values of the Ree–Eyring fluid parameter. Originality/value: The results stated are original and new with the thermal radiative boundary layer flow of two immiscible Ree–Eyring fluid and Al2O3/ γAl2O3 nanofluid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are highly crystalline polymers that possess exceptional porosity and surface area, making them a subject of significant research interest. COF materials are synthesized by chemically linking organic molecules in a repetitive arrangement, creating a highly effective porous crystalline structure that adsorbs and retains gases. They are highly effective in removing impurities, such as CO2, because of their desirable characteristics, such as durability, high reactivity, stable porosity, and increased surface area. This study offers a background overview, encompassing a concise discussion of the current issue of excessive carbon emissions, and a synopsis of the materials most frequently used for CO2 collection. This review provides a detailed overview of COF materials, particularly emphasizing their synthesis methods and applications in carbon capture. It presents the latest research findings on COFs synthesized using various covalent bond formation techniques. Moreover, it discusses emerging trends and future prospects in this particular field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Snake envenomation presents a significant global health challenge, especially in rural areas of tropical and subtropical regions. Traditional antivenom therapies face limitations related to efficacy, availability, and specificity, prompting a need for novel approaches. Recent advancements in omics technologies, particularly metabolomics and proteomics, have enhanced our understanding of snake venom composition, toxicity, and potential therapeutic strategies. Metabolomics allows for the study of metabolic changes induced by venom, providing insights into disrupted pathways and possible inhibitors. Proteomics facilitates the identification and characterization of venom proteins, unveiling their interactions with therapeutic agents. Integrative databases such as the Snake Venom Database (SVDB) and STAB Profiles enhance this research by cataloging venom components and aiding in the analysis of venom–antivenom interactions. The combined application of metabolomics and proteomics has led to the identification of crucial metabolic pathways and protein targets essential for effective venom inhibition. This review explores current advances in these fields, emphasizing the role of omics in identifying novel inhibitors and developing next-generation antivenoms. The integrated approach of metabolomics and proteomics offers a comprehensive understanding of snake venom biology, paving the way for more effective and tailored therapeutic solutions for envenomation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy consumption by heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems has driven the need for energy-efficient building designs. This research presents a methodology for optimizing the design features of intermittently active air-conditioned commercial buildings in India's tropical climates to enhance thermal performance. Utilizing the Building Energy Simulation Optimization (BESO) approach, the study integrated the admittance method–based simulation framework with a recently developed metaheuristic optimization algorithm, the grasshopper optimization algorithm (GOA), and assessed its efficacy. Expanding upon a foundational study that initially applied GOA for building thermal performance enhancement, this research introduces a more comprehensive set of key decision variables. A rigorous comparative analysis of GA and GOA was conducted across three major Indian climatic zones, maintaining consistent population size and generations for robust comparison. The results indicate that GOA outperforms GA in minimizing the annual thermal load of air-conditioned buildings by 2.32%–12.37% and reducing computational time by 4.18%–37.11%. Furthermore, the study focused on refining algorithm parameters to enhance performance, employing advanced techniques such as metaoptimization (using auxiliary algorithms for calibration) and dynamic parameter adjustment based on reinforcement learning (RL) principles. These advanced techniques, previously unexplored in the BESO domain, address complex optimization challenges effectively. Fine-tuning parameters with metaoptimization resulted in performance improvements of 0.04%–2.86%, whereas RL-based fine-tuning resulted in improvements of 1.03%–5.97%. Although the efficacy of the optimization framework was demonstrated using case studies in India's tropical climate, the approach provides a robust guideline for integrating advanced RL techniques and metaheuristic optimization algorithms to design energy-efficient buildings in various other climatic conditions. The holistic consideration of diverse decision variables is identified as a critical factor in sustainable building design. This research has practical implications for the design and implementation of energy-efficient building systems in the real world, with enhanced thermal performance, and contributing to the goal of creating sustainable building solutions. Practical Applications: This study introduces a comprehensive building energy simulation optimization approach to optimize building design parameters for enhanced thermal performance in commercial buildings within India's tropical climate. By utilizing advanced optimization algorithms such as the grasshopper optimization algorithm, significant improvements in minimizing annual thermal loads are achieved, along with computational time savings. Moreover, innovative methodologies for algorithm optimization, including metaoptimization and reinforcement learning–based fine-tuning, lead to additional enhancements in optimization outcomes. These findings offer practical solutions for architects, engineers, and policymakers to design energy-efficient buildings, addressing the urgent need for sustainability in the built environment. This research contributes valuable insights into optimizing building performance and reducing energy consumption, which are crucial steps toward creating environmentally responsible and resilient urban spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most prevalent cancer worldwide and has a high mortality rate. Many chemotherapeutic agents have been used for treatment; however, their success is limited because of the lack of site-specific targeted drug delivery. Thus, the nanoparticle-based targeted drug delivery approach can reduce the challenges associated with conventional chemotherapy. This study evaluated the synergistic potential of gold (Au), silver (Ag), and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) loaded with doxorubicin (DOX) in HepG2 cancer cells. DOX loaded onto Au, Ag, and ZnO NPs via surface adsorption. The efficiency of in vitro controlled release was investigated under optimum pH and release time conditions. The synergistic effect of DOX-loaded NPs on cell proliferation was evaluated using cytotoxicity assay. The gene expression levels of regulatory proteins were estimated using RT-PCR. The binding energy between Ag: DOX and the anticancer proteins was investigated using molecular docking approach. The drug loading and release efficiencies of Ag: DOX, Au: DOX, and ZnO: DOX were 81.94%, 85.27%, and 93.25% and 96.2%, 88.4%, and 82.4%, respectively, revealing a sustained release pattern for Ag: DOX. Ag: DOX showed enhanced cytotoxicity with a 48.8% viability rate, suggesting a synergistic effect. Upregulation of p53 and caspase9 and downregulation of BcL2 and AKT were observed. Docking studies validated the interaction between Ag: DOX and regulatory proteins. The results suggest that Ag: DOX is a suitable and efficient nanoconjugate for DOX delivery with synergistic effect with potential to be used for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteofibrous dysplasia (OFD) is a rare benign bone lesion primarily affecting the long bones' anterior cortex, commonly observed in adolescents. Typically found in the tibia and fibula, it represents less than 1% of primary bone tumors. While OFD is predominantly seen in the lower extremities, occurrences in ribs, particularly in adult females, are exceptionally rare. Distinguishing OFD from fibrous dysplasia and OFD-like adamantinoma is crucial due to distinct clinical and histopathological features. We illustrate an interesting clinical course of a 28-year-old adult female with monostotic OFD involving the right 8th rib, who was clinically and radiologically suspected to be having fibrous dysplasia (FD). However, histopathological examination assisted in the confirmation of the final diagnosis of OFD. This report presents a case of OFD in the 8th rib of a 28-year-old female, highlighting the diagnostic challenge and emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis for appropriate management. The rarity of this presentation underscores the need for further research to elucidate the clinical spectrum and optimal management strategies for OFD in unusual anatomical locations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Huntington's Disease (HD) are distinct neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders, respectively, characterized by significant genetic and molecular alterations. ASD primarily affects early childhood and is associated with genetic mutations impacting brain development, while HD, an autosomal dominant disorder, leads to progressive neurodegeneration due to mutations in the HTT gene. Despite their differences, both disorders share common genetic pathways and molecular mechanisms. This study aims to explore the genetic and molecular connections between ASD and HD through a comprehensive analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks to uncover shared pathways and potential overlapping mechanisms. Transcriptomic data were acquired from the NCBI-GEO database, specifically GSE180185 for ASD and GSE1751 for HD. DEGs were identified using thresholds of log2 fold change (FC)>1 and an adjusted p -value <0.05. Common DEGs between the two disorders were determined and analyzed using Cytoscape's STRING app to construct a PPI network with a confidence level of 0.7. Functional enrichment was conducted through KEGG and Gene Ontology (GO) analyses. Key regulatory modules and hubs were identified using CytoNCA and MCODE plugins. The ASD dataset revealed 565 DEGs, with 206 upregulated and 347 downregulated, while the HD dataset had 1091 DEGs, with 743 upregulated and 202 downregulated. Twelve genes were common to both conditions, including 4 upregulated and 8 downregulated. The PPI network comprised 62 nodes and 215 edges, with significant pathways including ascorbate metabolism and steroid hormone biosynthesis. Notably, Module 3, containing 12 nodes, was linked to EGFR tyrosine kinase resistance and apoptosis. This study identifies shared genetic and molecular pathways between ASD and HD, highlighting common regulatory mechanisms and potential targets for further research. The use of transcriptomic data and PPI network analysis reveals significant overlaps in the molecular mechanisms underlying these disorders. Further experimental validation and expanded dataset analyses could elucidate specific interactions and enhance our understanding of the shared pathways. Investigating these common mechanisms may also provide insights into potential therapeutic approaches for both ASD and HD. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Huntington's disease (HD) datasets reveal significant genetic overlaps, including 12 common DEGs identified. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis highlights key hub genes and functional modules enriched in EGFR tyrosine kinase resistance, apoptosis, and other critical pathways. Functional enrichment and gene ontology analyses indicate shared biological processes, cellular components, and molecular functions, offering potential therapeutic targets for both ASD and HD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is a complex global health challenge that requires novel and holistic approaches to treatment and prevention. Polyherbal medicines, composed of multiple plants with historical use in traditional medicine, have gained popularity due to their safety, cost-effectiveness, and accessibility. However, selecting the right plants and determining optimal combinations for enhanced biological effects remains challenging. To address this, a molecular docking study was conducted, targeting proteins implicated in cancer pathogenesis. The study identified bioactive compounds with strong binding energies, guiding the selection of polyherbal formulations for further experimentation. Using response surface methodology, various combinations of plant extracts were screened for their antioxidant properties and phytochemical content. Among the formulations tested, PHEE (Polyherbal Ethanolic Extract), comprising 70% soursop leaf, 5% jackfruit leaf, 5% orange peel, 15% citrus juice, and 5% apple fruit ethanolic extracts, exhibited the most potent biological activities, followed by SLEE (Soursop Leaf Ethanolic Extract), a 100% soursop leaf ethanolic extract. Design Expert Software predicted soursop leaf extract as a key contributor to desirable outcomes, attributed to its rich phytochemical composition. Cell-based assays revealed varying cytotoxic effects of the extracts on leukemia cells, with PHEE showing the highest potency (IC50 = 2.50 μg/mL), followed closely by SLEE (IC50 = 2.90 μg/mL). These effects are potentially due to the abundant acetogenins and flavonoids present in the extracts. However, caution is warranted regarding their cytotoxicity to normal cells. Apoptotic studies confirmed the ability of both PHEE and SLEE to induce programmed cell death, further supporting their potential as anticancer agents. This research underscores the importance of strategic plant combinations in polyherbal formulations and highlights PHEE as a promising candidate for further investigation in cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and spinal cord injury (SCI) are significant central nervous system injuries with epidemiological importance, particularly in the North Africa and the Middle East (NAME) region, which is diverse in public health aspects across its 21 countries. Objective: This study aims to present an up-to-date assessment of the regional and national TBI and SCI burden and their causes in the NAME region from 1990 to 2021. Methods: We utilized the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) results tool to gather relevant data. The analysis included TBI and SCI incidence, prevalence, and years lived with disability (YLDs) rates, along with absolute numbers and percent change trends by gender, age, and country from 1990 to 2021. We also examined the causes of TBI and SCI and identified the most common causes for each country. Results: In 2021, TBI age-standardized rates of incidence, prevalence, and YLDs were 333 (293, 380), 593 (553, 642), and 87 (63, 114) per 100,000 people, respectively. For SCI, the rates were 10 (7, 13), 256 (200, 344), and 78 (51, 115). Since 1990, incidence rates of TBI and SCI have decreased in most countries. Saudi Arabia, Afghanistan, and Yemen experienced increasing incidence rates for both injuries. Transport injuries and unintentional injuries were the primary causes of TBI and SCI, respectively, in most countries. Conclusion: Despite global trends showing a decreased burden of TBI and SCI, the NAME region's public health systems should remain vigilant. Both injuries are epidemiologically significant and require continued public health interventions to manage and control them in this particular region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of this study is to harness computer-aided drug repurposing (CADR) techniques to identify existing FDA-approved drugs that can potentially disrupt the assembly of the Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) core protein (HBcAg), an essential process in the virus's life cycle. By targeting this critical step, our study aims to expand the repertoire of therapeutic options for managing chronic Hepatitis B infection, a major global health challenge. Utilizing a combination of computational methods, including the CavityPlus server for ability to analyze druggable protein cavities and extract pharmacophore features and LigandScout for pharmacophore-based virtual screening of a vast library of FDA-approved drugs was conducted. Molecular dynamic simulation (MDS) was employed to evaluate the stability of HBcAg, complexed with Heteroaryldihydropyrimidine (HAP) and statins exhibiting particularly strong binding energies and conformational compatibility. Our approach focused on identifying pharmacophore features that align with known HBcAg inhibitors. The study identified several promising candidates, including Ciclopirox olamine, Voriconazole, Enasidenib, and statins, demonstrating potential interactions with HBc protein residues. Molecular docking further validated these interactions. The significance of these findings lies in their potential to offer new, effective therapeutic strategies for HBV treatment, particularly as alternatives to current therapies that often suffer from issues of viral resistance and adverse side effects. MDS analysis verified the robustness of HAP and statins by showing a high level of binding energies and compatibility with HBcAg. Our results provide a foundation for further experimental validation and underscore the utility of computer-aided drug repurposing as a rapid, cost-effective approach to drug discovery in antiviral research. This study contributes to our understanding of HBV biology and opens avenues for developing novel anti-HBV therapies based on repurposed drugs. The highlighted compound may also enhance the challenges of drug resistance when used as a combination therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessing the temperament of various organs can be a significant factor in preventing or managing conditions related to those organs. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the uterine and body temperaments in women with and without PCOS. This case-control study involved 150 participants, with 75 individuals in each group. The participants were selected between May and November 2023 in Babol, Iran. Samples were matched based on demographic characteristics. Both groups completed demographic and uterine and body temperaments questionnaires designed by Saeidi in Tehran. Logistic regression analysis, with a 95% odds ratio (OR) and confidence interval (CI), were used to determine the effect size in the model. A significance level of P < 0.05 was considered. Regarding body temperament, the results indicated that women with and without PCOS had a cold temperament in 11 (57.9%) and 8 (42.7%) individuals, respectively, which was not statistically significant (OR 1.87, 95% CI 0.0.64, 5.47, P = 0.25). Body temperament was also not significantly different in terms of heat and dryness between women with and without PCOS (OR 1.41, 95% CI 0.64, 3.10, P = 0.38). However, in terms of uterine temperament, 39 (61.9%) women with PCOS and 24 (38.1%) without PCOS exhibited a cold temperament, showing a significant statistical difference between the two groups (OR 2.49, 95% CI.69, 5.33, P = 0.018) after adjusting for demographic and midwifery variables. The predominant uterine temperament in women with PCOS was cold, with no significant difference in body temperament between individuals with PCOS and those without. Therefore, it is plausible to consider the use of complementary medicine to balance and aid in treating uterine temperament in these individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a B-cell malignancy primarily diagnosed in older adults. For younger patients, treatment options often include regimens based on fludarabine, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab; however, at least 20% of patients exhibit resistance to these therapies. Ibrutinib, a covalent Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor, has demonstrated enhanced safety compared to conventional treatments. This meta-analysis examines the efficacy and safety of ibrutinib in managing relapsed/refractory CLL. Method: Relevant keywords were used to conduct a comprehensive search across online databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Data related to complete response (CR), overall response rate (ORR), and adverse events were extracted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ibrutinib treatment. The results were presented in forest plots illustrating event rates and risk ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CI), while heterogeneity was assessed using I² statistics. Funnel plots were employed to examine potential publication bias visually. Result: Twenty-one studies were included in this meta-analysis. Ibrutinib as a single-agent treatment was associated with a 9% complete response (CR) rate (95% CI: 5–14%) and a 77% overall response rate (ORR) (95% CI: 70–83%). When combined with other agents, ibrutinib achieved a CR rate of 21% (95% CI: 9–41%) and an ORR of 84% (95% CI: 80–88%). Adverse events were not significantly correlated with treatment outcomes. Funnel plots indicated no significant publication bias. Conclusion: Single-agent ibrutinib has proven to be an effective therapy for patients with relapsed/refractory CLL. However, combining ibrutinib with other agents has demonstrated enhanced treatment efficacy. Further studies are needed to evaluate the safety profile of this therapeutic regimen thoroughly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Erectile dysfunction is a common and multifactorial condition that significantly impacts men's quality of life. Traditional treatments, such as phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5i), often fail to provide lasting benefits, particularly in patients with underlying health conditions. In recent years, regenerative medicine, particularly stem cell therapies, has emerged as a promising alternative for managing erectile dysfunction. This review explores the potential of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) and their paracrine effects, including extracellular vesicles (EVs), in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. MSCs have shown remarkable potential in promoting tissue repair, reducing inflammation, and regenerating smooth muscle cells, offering therapeutic benefits in models of erectile dysfunction. Clinical trials have demonstrated positive outcomes in improving erectile function and other clinical parameters. This review highlights the promise of MSC therapy for erectile dysfunction, discusses existing challenges, and emphasizes the need for continued research to refine these therapies and improve long-term patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To find potential inhibitors of Naegleria fowleri S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine hydrolase (NfSAHH), a brain-eating parasite, structure-based drug design was adopted. N. fowlerica causes primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), a fatal central nervous system (CNS) disorder if untreated. NfSAHH protein (PDB ID: 5v96), involved in parasite growth and gene regulation, was targeted and screened against 163 metabolites from Gossypium hirsutum (cotton plant). With the aid of different software and web tools, the metabolites were subjected to several analyses. The RMSD was evaluated to validate our molecular docking strategy. Neplanocin A, a common anti-parasitic medication, was used as a reference to select top ligands for post-docking studies. Significant interactions were observed with residues THR-198, HIS-395, and MET-400. The drug-likeness of the top fifty hits was analyzed using Lipinski, Ghose, Veber, Egan, and Muegge rules. The top ten compounds following Lipinski's RO5 were studied regarding medicinal chemistry, pharmacokinetic simulation, and Swiss target prediction. Advanced strategies, including molecular dynamic simulations, binding energy calculations, and principal component analysis, were employed for the top three hits, namely curcumin, heliocide H2, and piceid, which indicated that heliocide H2 is the most promising candidate, while curcumin and piceid may need further optimization to improve their stability. Overall, the top ten phytochemicals, dotriacontanol, melissic acid, curcumin, 6,6′-dimethoxygossypol, phytosphingosine 2, methyl stearate, stearic acid, piceid, heliocide H2, and 6-methoxygossypol, reported in our study, are worthy enough to be subjected to in vivo and in vitro experimentation to find a novel drug to treat PAM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into medical education is poised to revolutionize teaching, learning, and clinical practice. However, successful implementation of AI-based tools in medical curricula faces several challenges, particularly in resource-limited settings like Pakistan, where technological and institutional barriers remain significant. This study aimed to evaluate knowledge, attitudes, and practices of medical students and faculty regarding AI in medical education, and explore the perceptions and key barriers regarding strategies for effective AI integration. Methods: A concurrent mixed-methods study was conducted over six months (July 2023 to January 2024) at a tertiary care medical college in Pakistan. The quantitative component utilized a cross-sectional design, with 236 participants (153 medical students and 83 faculty members) completing an online survey. Mean composite scores for knowledge, attitudes, and practices were analyzed using non-parametric tests. The qualitative component consisted of three focus group discussions with students and six in-depth interviews with faculty. Thematic analysis was performed to explore participants' perspectives on AI integration. Results: Majority of participants demonstrated a positive attitude towards AI integration. Faculty had significantly higher mean attitude scores compared to students (3.95 ± 0.63 vs. 3.81 ± 0.75, p = 0.040). However, no statistically significant differences in knowledge (faculty: 3.53 ± 0.66, students: 3.55 ± 0.73, p = 0.870) or practices (faculty: 3.19 ± 0.87, students: 3.23 ± 0.89, p = 0.891) were found. Older students reported greater self-perceived knowledge (p = 0.010) and more positive attitudes (p = 0.016) towards AI, while male students exhibited higher knowledge scores than females (p = 0.025). Qualitative findings revealed key themes, including AI's potential to enhance learning and research, concerns about over-reliance on AI, ethical issues surrounding privacy and confidentiality, and the need for institutional support. Faculty emphasized the importance of training to equip educators with the necessary skills to effectively integrate AI into their teaching. Conclusions: This study highlights both the enthusiasm for AI integration and the significant barriers that must be addressed to successfully implement AI in medical education. Addressing technological constraints, providing faculty training, and developing ethical guidelines are critical steps toward fostering the responsible use of AI in medical curricula. These findings underscore the need for context-specific strategies, particularly in resource-limited settings, to ensure that medical students and educators are well-prepared for the future of healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemotherapy-resistant tumors present a significant challenge in oncology, often leading to treatment failures owing to mechanisms such as genetic mutations, drug efflux, altered metabolism, and adaptations within the tumor microenvironment. These factors limit the effectiveness of treatment and contribute to tumor resistance. This review highlights the role of alternative therapies aimed at overcoming resistance mechanisms. Several alternative strategies with high efficacy rate against tumor resistance are being explored, including targeted therapies (58–64%), immunotherapy (80%), hormone therapy (22–61%), and emerging approaches such as herbal therapies (90%), probiotics (34–90%), metabolic therapies (> 50%), epigenetic therapies (51–89%), microbiome-based therapies (50%), gene therapy (67–80%), photodynamic therapy/hypothermia (86–99%), and nanotechnology (50–67%). Integrating these alternative strategies with conventional treatments has the potent-al to augment the therapeutic efficacy and patient outcomes. Despite this progress, limitations in cancer therapeutics include the lack of predictive biomarkers, resistance mechanisms, and tumor heterogeneity, all of which contribute to treatment failure and relapse. To address these limitations, advancements in molecular diagnostics, as well as early detection through liquid biopsies, and the use of biomarkers to monitor resistance and guide treatment are crucial. Additionally, expanding clinical trials is essential to validate new therapies and improve patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is an incretin peptide hormone mainly secreted by enteroendocrine intestinal L-cells. GLP-1 is also secreted by α-cells of the pancreas and the central nervous system (CNS). GLP-1 secretion is stimulated by nutrient intake and exerts its effects on glucose homeostasis by stimulating insulin secretion, gastric emptying confiding the food intake, and β-cell proliferation. The insulinotropic effects of GLP-1, and the reduction of its effects in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), have made GLP-1 an attractive option for the treatment of T2DM. Furthermore, GLP-1-based medications such as GLP-1 receptor agonists and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, have been shown to improve diabetes control in preclinical and clinical trials with human subjects. Importantly, increasing the endogenous production of GLP-1 by different mechanisms or by increasing the number of intestinal L-cells that tend to produce this hormone may be another effective therapeutic approach to managing T2DM. Herein, we briefly describe therapeutic agents/compounds that enhance GLP-1 function. Then, we will discuss the approaches that can increase the endogenous production of GLP-1 through various stimuli. Finally, we introduce the potential of L-cell differentiation as an attractive future therapeutic approach to increase GLP-1 production as an attractive therapeutic alternative for T2DM. Highlights: Intestinal L cells-derived GLP-1 induce insulin secretion in response to meal intake. Insulinotropic potency of GLP-1 decrease in T2DM. GLP-1 receptor agonists and DPP4-inhibitor direct the T2DM therapies. Increasing the endogenous production of GLP-1 through increasing the L-cells may be an effective therapeutic approach to managing T2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Breastfeeding provides significant health benefits for both infants and mothers, but many women discontinue earlier than recommended. This study investigates the factors contributing to early breastfeeding cessation among Arab women in Israel, focusing on multiple factors, such as socio-demographic, work-related, cultural, and religious, impacting breastfeeding duration and shaping breastfeeding practices. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 349 Arab women, 65% of whom were Muslim and 35% Christian. Logistic regression analyses were used to identify key predictors of breastfeeding cessation. Results: Findings showed that Christian Arab women were more likely to stop breastfeeding earlier than their Muslim counterparts. Mothers with four or more children and those balancing work demands were at higher risk of early cessation. Contrary to expectations, higher levels of religiosity were associated with a greater likelihood of stopping breastfeeding. Additionally, mothers who received personal breastfeeding guidance were more likely to discontinue, suggesting potential gaps in the quality of support provided. Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of tailoring interventions to address the unique cultural and socio-economic challenges faced by Arab women in Israel. Recommendations include improving breastfeeding guidance quality, workplace support for breastfeeding mothers, and culturally sensitive interventions that consider the role of religiosity and family dynamics. This research provides valuable insights for healthcare providers and policymakers aiming to promote sustained breastfeeding practices in diverse populations. The study highlights the complexity of factors affecting breastfeeding cessation among Arab women in Israel, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions that address socio-demographic, cultural, and religious influences to promote sustained breastfeeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) play a pivotal role in sustainable agriculture by enhancing nutrient efficiency and reducing the dependence on synthetic fertilizers. Developing these sustainable, effective products requires knowledge of the target plant and its associated microbial communities in the production landscape of interest. This study focused on AMF populations associated with Tir wheat in six main locations of Türkiye's Van Lake Basin. The Erçek-Özalp-Saray region exhibited the highest organic matter values. Higher available phosphorous contents were found for Erciş-Patnos and Muradiye. The Erciş-Patnos region exhibited the highest AMF density (120 spores/10 g soil) and frequency (75%), while the lowest AMF density (45 spores/10 g soil) was recorded in Muradiye. Sand contents correlated positively with spore number and mycorrhizal frequency and negatively with silt and clay. Based on these results, Erciş-Patnos was elected as the best location for the isolation of AMF spores suitable for the development of microbial-based tools for Tir wheat cultivation. These results are very important in the current context of climate change, which mandates the use of low-impact environmental strategies. Further research should explore the interactions of AMFs with other microorganisms to optimize their ecological benefits. However, the results of this study provide a valuable basis for future investigations of AMF-based products for use in sustainable Tir wheat cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Approximately 80% of patients with advanced heart failure (HF) die within five years of diagnosis and may benefit from palliative care (PC). PC is underutilized in HF patients. One barrier is nurses' insufficient knowledge of PC. This quality improvement project aimed to enhance the PC knowledge of nurses caring for patients with HF in a Canadian tertiary care setting. Method: This project was guided by the Knowledge-to-Action framework. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to identify nurses' learning needs, which informed the development of the educational sessions. These sessions were delivered using hybrid, virtual, and asynchronous modalities. PC knowledge tests were used pre- and post-intervention to evaluate the nurses' PC knowledge. The data were presented using descriptive statistics. Results: Thirteen nurses attended the educational sessions. Ten responses were received for both the pre- and post-knowledge tests. Most participants had more than 10 years of experience, were 41 years or older, and had received prior PC training. The post-test showed improved knowledge (90–100%) of opioid use for symptomatic relief of dyspnea, advanced care planning (ACP) discussions, and communication processes. Knowledge of NSAID use in patients with HF increased by 60%. All nurses demonstrated an understanding of ACP concepts before and after the education. PC concept understanding increased from 80 to 90%. Conclusions: Educational sessions improved nurses' PC knowledge, and future education should emphasize improving PC perceptions and symptom management. However, evaluating the effectiveness of PC education is challenging because of low participation. Further research with a larger sample, longer implementation time, ongoing evaluation of PC knowledge, and nurses with diverse ages and experiences is required to understand the impact of PC education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most common malignant neoplasm in males and is the fifth leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Due to the use of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening and improved biopsy techniques, persons identified with early-stage prostate cancer often have a positive prognosis after comprehensive treatment. Nonetheless, prostate cancer is a latent illness that may present as an asymptomatic tumor in individuals aged 20–30. The overall survival (OS) of men with advanced PCa is significantly diminished. Consequently, there is an immediate want for innovative, accurate biomarkers to detect early prostate cancer. Methods: This research analyzed the interaction network of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to metabolite interconversion enzymes in PCa by gene expression microarray data, single-cell RNA sequencing, oncogenes, and tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) utilizing bioinformatics techniques. This kind of analysis has not been documented in prior studies. Results: We then used a dataset acquired by the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) to confirm our findings. Genes including CYP3A5, PDE8B, AOX1, BNIPL, FADS2, RRM2, ALDH3B2, and GSTM2 may be significant in the diagnosis and treatment of PCa. Conclusion: Our objective was to provide new perspectives on the molecular properties and pathways of DEGs in PCa and to uncover potential biomarkers that play a crucial role in the genesis and progression of PCa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate the effect of fractional order on a novel cancer treatment model in the Caputo sense with chemotherapy and stem cell therapy. The existence of positive solutions, equilibria, and linear stability of the model are examined. The Ulam-Hyers stability of the system is investigated. An optimal treatment schedule is developed to obtain the combined effect of chemotherapy and stem cell therapy on the model. The analytical results are verified through numerical examples. It has been observed that stem cell therapy and effector cells alone cannot eradicate tumor cells effectively. However, in the presence of optimally controlled chemotherapy, there is an effective reduction in the population of tumor cells, while the populations of normal and effector cells progressively grow over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Migrants face barriers accessing healthcare, risking delays in cancer diagnosis. Diagnostic delays result in later stage diagnosis which is associated with poorer cancer survival. This review aims to compare the differences in cancer stage at diagnosis between migrants and non-migrants. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of three databases from 2000 to 2023 for studies conducted in OECD countries that compared stage at diagnosis between migrants and non-migrants. Meta-analysis compared odds ratios (OR) for early (stage I and II) stage at diagnosis. The Risk of Bias in Non-randomised Studies of Exposure tool was used to assess study quality. Results: 41 of the 11,549 studies identified were included; 34 studies had suitable data for meta-analysis. Overall, migrants were significantly less likely to be diagnosed with early stage cancer compared with non-migrants (OR 0.84; 95% CI 0.78–0.91). This difference was maintained across cancer types, although only statistically significant for breast (OR 0.78; 95% CI 0.70–0.87) and prostate cancer (OR 0.92; 95% CI 0.85–0.99). Discussion: Published studies indicate that migrants are less likely to be diagnosed with early stage cancer. Variation by cancer type, study location and region of origin highlights the need for further research to understand these differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Pertussis remains among the top ten most common fatal aetiologies of acute respiratory infections worldwide. This study reports findings from the first laboratory-confirmed pertussis outbreak among primary schoolchildren in Burkina Faso. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted during an outbreak in the districts of Sabou and Sapouy following an alert from the national surveillance system. Suspected pertussis cases were investigated, with oropharyngeal/nasopharyngeal samples and sociodemographic and clinical data collected. Samples were analyzed using multiplex rRT-PCR and the FTD-33 Kit (Fast Track Diagnostics, Luxembourg). Descriptive statistics were conducted, and factors associated with pertussis positive cases were assessed using the Chi-square test and univariate logistic regression. Results: A total of 92 suspected pertussis cases with no fatal outcomes were identified among the schoolchildren in two different clusters during the investigation. The overall attack rate of the two clusters were 18.4% (92/499). Fifteen (16.6%) cases were biologically confirmed. The average age was 8.9 years, and 62% (57/92) were female. Rhinovirus (17.3%) and adenovirus (7.6%) were the most prevalent respiratory viruses detected among the suspected cases. Streptococcus pneumoniae (58.7%) and Haemophilus influenzae (56.5%) were the most common bacteria detected. A significant association was found between sore throat and confirmed cases (OR = 3.5, CI 95% [1.01–11.9]). Conclusion: Despite extensive vaccination in several countries, pertussis can still cause outbreaks. Preventive measures, such as booster vaccinations for children outside the Expanded Program of Immunization (EPI) target age, are necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thiram is a widely used fungicide in agricultural practices as spraying on crops and grains storage but its potential adverse effects on non-target aquatic organisms have raised serious concerns. In this study, firstly LC50 value of thiram has been determined as 0.744 mg/L for the first time in Labeo rohita and then, the fish were exposed to different sub-lethal concentrations of thiram (40 μg/L, 80 μg/L and 120 μg/L) to evaluate the effects on tissue growth, oxidative stress, anti-oxidant enzymes and histo-pathological parameters at days-20, 40 and 60 of the experiment. There observed a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the body weight while a significant increase in the relative (p < 0.05) and absolute (p < 0.05) weights of kidneys, heart and brain was found. Hematological analysis showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in leukocytes and neutrophils while lymphocytes and monocytes, RBCs and hemoglobin concentration were significantly (p < 0.05) decreased. Serum biochemical parameters revealed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in urea and hepatic enzymes while a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in total proteins, albumin and creatinine were observed at higher doses (80 μg/L and 120 μg/L) of thiram. Oxidative stress parameters; ROS and TBARS were increased significantly (p < 0.05) while antioxidant enzymes (CAT, SOD, POD, GSH) showed a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the treated groups compared to the control. Moreover, comet assay revealed significant (p < 0.05) DNA damage in the isolated cells of kidneys, heart and brain at higher doses (80 μg/L and 120 μg/L) of thiram that was further confirmed by histo-pathological alterations in these tissues. The findings demonstrate that thiram severely pollute the marine eco-system and is quite hazardous for aquatic species by causing severe health effects even at sub-lethal concentrations and thus, render the apparently clean water to be unfit for animal and human consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare clinical findings and visual outcomes of vitreous hemorrhage (VH) associated with uveitis in adults versus children. Methods: A retrospective comparative study. Results: There were 36 adults (44 eyes) and 10 children (12 eyes). Median age was 35 years in the adult group and 9.5 years in the pediatric group. VH was the presenting manifestation of the underlying uveitis in 45.7% of patients. VH in the adult group was more frequently associated with vascular sheathing, retinal hemorrhages, and extensive peripheral retinal ischemia on fluorescein angiography (FA), whereas VH in the pediatric group was associated with a significantly lower presenting visual acuity, and more frequently with vitritis and non-occlusive retinal vasculitis with fern-like retinal capillaritis. The most common source of bleeding was ischemia-driven retinal or optic disc neovascularization in the adult group (81.8%, p ≤ 0.001) and inflammation-driven optic disc neovascularization in the pediatric group (66.6%, p ≤ 0.001). A retinal vasoproliferative tumor was the cause of VH in one child (1.8%). Tuberculosis and Behçet's uveitis were the most common etiologies of uveitis in the adult group. Idiopathic intermediate uveitis/pars planitis was the leading cause of VH in the pediatric group. The mean final visual acuity was significantly higher in the pediatric group (20/25) than in the adult group (20/50) (p = 0.045). Conclusions: VH associated with uveitis has a distinctive clinical and etiological profile between adults and children. The main source of bleeding was ischemia-driven neovascularization in adults and inflammation-driven neovascularization in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigates air pollution dynamics through newspaper discourse in India and Pakistan, where both countries rank among the top five countries affected by air pollution. The study focused on newspaper discourses over almost two decades (2005–2023). The study applied Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA), a robust algorithm for analyzing the large text corpus. The study underpinned Computational Grounded Theory, which relies on the fact that computation is a way to reveal the hidden meanings beyond the text. The LDA-generated topics reveal that both countries face the toxicological effects of air pollution on health. The primary topics extracted through LDA revolve around discourses related to vehicular emissions, industrial emissions, and urbanization. In addition, the control measures taken by both countries relate to emission standards. The study also has implications for policymakers and planners considering these directions to control air pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of Review: Focused review highlighting ten select studies presented at the 2024 American Heart Association (AHA) Scientific Sessions. Recent Finding: Included studies assessed effects of intensive blood pressure control in patients with type 2 diabetes (BPROAD); decision support system for physicians to optimize early lipid lowering therapies after acute coronary syndrome (ZODIAC); efficacy and safety of zerlasiran, a short interfering RNA targeting lipoprotein(a) (ALPACAR); efficacy and safety of muvalaplin an oral disrupter of the assembly of lipoprotein(a) particles (KRAKEN); safety and efficacy of obicetrapib in patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (BROOKLYN); efficacy and safety of lerodalcibep, a third generation PCSK9 inhibitor in heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia subjects (LIBerate-HeFH_OLE); personalized app-based coaching to improve physical activity in patients with HFpEF compared to standard care (MyoMobile); semaglutide to improve cardiovascular outcomes in patients with a history of coronary artery bypass surgery and overweight or obesity (the SELECT trial); efficacy and safety of plozasiran in adults with genetically or clinically defined familial chylomicronemia syndrome at high risk of acute pancreatitis (PALISADE); and transcriptomic signatures and predictors of evolocumab added to maximum statin therapy based on intra-coronary plaque characteristics (YELLOW III). Summary: Research presented at the 2024 AHA Scientific Sessions emphasized innovative strategies in cardiovascular disease prevention and management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]